The NYS Assembly and Assemblyman Phil Ramos Recognize the Achievements of Women Veterans

June 12, 2012

Commemorating the 64th anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Act of 1948, which ensured that women would have a permanent place in the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps, Assemblyman Ramos (D-Brentwood), Chair of the Assembly Veterans’ Affairs Committee, announced the Assembly passed a resolution declaring June 12, 2012, as “Women Veterans Recognition Day” (K.1508). Today, New York proudly honors the over 63,800 women veterans from the state of New York.i

“Throughout our history, women have been an integral part of our military,” Assemblyman Ramos said. “With bravery and honor, no matter what the task, women have served our armed forces to protect our country and the liberties we enjoy. It’s important we recognize all they done for us.”

The Women’s Armed Services Act was signed into law by then-President Harry Truman and is the cornerstone for policies and regulations affecting women. Since 2001, more than 200,000 women have served in the U.S. military in Iraq and Afghanistan, Assemblyman Ramos said.

From 1973 to 2010, the number of active-duty enlisted women in the armed forces has grown from about 42,000 to 167,000; the percentage of women among the enlisted ranks has increased seven-fold, from 2 percent to 14 percent; and their share among commissioned officers has quadrupled, from 4 percent to 16 percent, Assemblyman Ramos said.

“The commitment and the sacrifices women veterans have made to keep our families safe make them worthy of our praise,” Assemblyman Ramos said. “The Assembly resolution recognizes their contributions and the vital role they play in defending our country.”